Japanese Studies BA

at University of Sheffield

First year

In your first year you will begin your language learning by focusing on reading, writing, listening and speaking, working with qualified native-speaker language teachers, using specially designed course material. 

Through our Exploring East Asia module you will be provided with essential knowledge of the East Asia region, its history, politics, geography and culture. This will give you a greater understanding of Japan, what shaped it and how it may develop in the future.

Core modules:

• Exploring East Asia
• Japanese Language 1A
• Japanese Language 1B
• Japanese Language 2A
• Japanese Language 2B

Second year

At level 2 you will develop your understanding of Japan and begin to explore disciplines such as history, politics or culture in more detail. Your modules will help you develop disciple specific skills which may include 

• Understanding economic and business models
• Analysing policy and writing policy briefs
• Critiquing visual art such as film
• Forming and debating a coherent argument

In your language classes you will build on what you have learnt in your first year and focus on language which will help you on your year abroad. 

Core modules:

• Japanese Language 3A
• Japanese Language 3B
• Japanese Language 4A
• Japanese Language 4B

Third year

Your third year will be spend studying in Japan at one of our many partner institutions where you will take intensve Japanese language classes and be immersed in Japanese culture and society. 

Core module:

• Japanese Year Abroad

Fourth year

In your final year you will focus on developing your research skills through specially designed research focused modules. The content of these modules change regularly to ensure they are topical and make the best use of our staff expertise 

In your language classes you will be introduced to advanced topics such as translation, interpretation and workplace language skills such as CV writing and presenting.

Core modules:

• Researching Japan 1
• Japanese Language 5
• Japanese Language 6
• East Asian Dissertation

The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
ABB

A Levels + additional qualifications BBB + B in a relevant EPQ

International Baccalaureate 33

BTEC Extended Diploma DDD in a relevant subject

BTEC Diploma DD + B at A Level

Scottish Highers AAABB

Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels B + AB

Access to HE Diploma Award of Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 30 at Distinction and 15 at Merit

Other requirements

• No prior knowledge of Japanese is required (up to A Level Japanese is acceptable)

• Evidence of interest in East Asia demonstrated through the personal statement is required

English language requirements
You must demonstrate that your English is good enough for you to successfully complete your course. For this course we require: GCSE English Language at grade 4/C; IELTS grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component; or an alternative acceptable English language qualification

Home students
£9,250 annual tuition fee

Overseas students
£20,000 annual tuition fee

Additional costs
The annual fee for your course includes a number of items in addition to your tuition. If an item or activity is classed as a compulsory element for your course, it will normally be included in your tuition fee. There are also other costs which you may need to consider.

Studying China, Japan or Korea prepares you for a career in the world's most dynamic region. There are also many opportunities across Europe for people with skills in Asian languages and cultures.

Our graduates work in government and diplomacy, media and the arts, non-government organisations and international business - in professions as diverse as management consultancy, accountancy, marketing, research, language teaching and translation.